Theory for Theatre Studies

This book presents an important analysis of the fundamental function of sound in theatre, from the acoustic expanses of Ancient Greek architecture, to the personal-political spaces of contemporary Headphone theatre. The breadth of knowledge and new insights afforded by the book are a breath of fresh air for researchers and students alike in a field which is often treated as a sub-category of other disciplines. Bennett draws on a wide range of theory and philosophy to demonstrate how sound has played a much more significant role in playtexts, production and perception than traditional theatre studies scholarship has hitherto considered, and puts forward a politics of theatre sound and its potential to perform difference through acoustic experience and ethical listening. -- Lynne Kendrick, The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, University of London, UK This is an indispensable new resource for theatre students, scholars and makers. It takes readers on an engaging and thoughtful journey through the constantly evolving role of sound in theatre studies. Starting with ‘Classical Sound’ the volume considers experiences of listening, of producing sound and of being immersed in sonic environments. In the process it explores the philosophical, political, ethical and technological roles of sound from Aristotle to the 21st century. What is most impressive about this volume, however, is the nuanced way it draws together key theoretical, critical and aesthetic ideas to provide the reader with a clear sense of how these operate to shape both what they hear and do not hear within and in response to the theatre. This is a timely, valuable and thoughtfully written book that will be of great utility for all those interested in theatre, sound studies and in the acts of producing theatre, of listening and of understanding what they hear. -- Helena Grehan, Professor of Theatre and Drama Studies, Murdoch University, Australia